Latest California Healthline Stories
NYC Program in Spotlight for Reducing Malpractice Costs
A New York City-based program that aims to curb legal expenses for medical malpractice cases is receiving attention from the Obama administration as a possible strategy for reducing health care costs. The program, called judge-directed negotiation, aims to avoid lengthy court battles by involving judges in malpractice cases earlier. James Battles — who oversees the grant for the program at the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality — says the program could save more than $1 billion annually if adopted nationally. New York Times.
Report: Major Medicaid Cuts Could Negatively Affect Children’s Health
A report by George Washington University researchers finds that deep Medicaid cuts could jeopardize the health of millions of children and other beneficiaries. Researchers conclude that public health insurance programs are cost effective. The Hill‘s “Healthwatch,” CQ HealthBeat.
Many Young Adults Staying on Parents’ Health Coverage
About 600,000 young adults have tapped a provision of the federal health law that allows individuals younger than age 26 to be covered by their parents’ health insurance policies, according to HHS. For example, Kaiser Permanente said 90,000 young adults nationwide have enrolled in their parents’ plans, while Blue Shield of California has added 22,000 dependents. San Francisco Chronicle.
Senate Passes Bill on Local Tax Power as Budget Deadline Nears
Gov. Brown’s proposed tax extensions failed to pass the Senate this weekend, but lawmakers did approve a bill providing local officials with greater tax authority. The governor says a budget vote will take place this Wednesday. Sacramento Bee et al.
Federal Oversight of Calif. Health Care Facility Ending
Within the next few months, the U.S. Department of Justice is expected to end its oversight of Laguna Honda Hospital and Rehabilitation Center. Federal oversight began in 1997 when investigators identified a “pattern of egregious conditions” at the facility. As part of a city plan to address the issues, the hospital has been rebuilt to emphasize individual patient care rather than institutionalized care. San Francisco Chronicle.
Editorial Praises Blue Shield’s Profit Cap, Premium Rebates
“By any measure, Blue Shield of California’s announcement that it is capping its income and returning money to customers is welcome news,” a Sacramento Bee editorial states. Although some critics have called Blue Shield’s move a “lobbying tactic,” the editorial states that “there is no evidence that the company took the step for any reason other than its stated point — that health care costs must come down.” Sacramento Bee.
CMS Issues Guidance on Nursing Home Care for Same-Sex Couples
CMS has sent state Medicaid directors a letter describing flexibility they have relating to nursing home care for same-sex couples. The directive describes extending financial protections to individuals regardless of sexual orientation. Modern Healthcare, CQ HealthBeat.
Measure Would Require Health Care Providers To Note Changes to EHRs
A bill working its way through the California Legislature would require health care providers to record any modifications to data in patients’ electronic health records. The legislation also would make it possible for patients to see changes to their EHRs. California Watch.
Napa County To Enforce New In-Home Care Requirements
On July 1, Napa County will start enforcing a law — the first of its kind in California — that requires in-home caregivers to undergo criminal background checks and pay for an annual permit. Registered nurses and other licensed health care workers will be exempt from the requirements. Fees from the background checks will go to the Area Agency on Aging Serving Napa and Solano. Napa Valley Register.
Hospital Group Seeking Support for Care of Undocumented Persons
Last week, the American Hospital Association asked the Obama administration to push for legislation that would better support hospitals for treating undocumented residents. There are more than 8.7 million undocumented residents in the U.S. Modern Healthcare.